In a message released on Saturday to mark Unity Week, Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf stressed that unity between Sunni and Shiite Muslims in Iran is a pillar of national strength and security.

He said recent regional developments have shown that foreign powers cannot provide lasting security for Muslim nations, arguing that regional security should instead be based on the will and cooperation of Muslim countries.

“New regional treaties and arrangements can herald the beginning of a new stage in which Muslim neighbors rely on their own capacities instead of foreigners and, rather than pursuing exhausting rivalries, choose the path of cooperation and brotherhood,” Qalibaf said.

He added that recent developments have demonstrated the benefits of Muslim unity, saying cooperation among Muslims have helped defeat adversaries and push back against the hegemonic ambitions.

Qalibaf also expressed hope that the Muslim world would move toward greater unity, independence, security and dignity, with Muslims determining their own future free from foreign interference.